Mozart at the Pianoforte
An unfinished oil painting by Joseph Lange (Mozart’s brother-in-law),
Vienna, around 1782/3. This is the most famous portrait of Mozart, in
part because it is the most "romantic" and introspective depiction.
Earlier portraits showed Mozart in poses—as a family member, as
a Knight of the Golden Spur, in court costume. This one, had it been finished,
would have shown us a contemplative Mozart at the pianoforte, natural
and more "real." The fact that it remains unfinished renders
it more perfect—a poignant parallel to Mozart’s own life.

Mozart at the Pianoforte. Unfinished Oil Painting
by Joseph Lange. Vienna, probably winter 1782-3. Original owned by the
Mozarteum, Salzburg.